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The Horsewoman’s Conference


  • Horse In Hand Ranch Blackfalds, Alberta (map)

Horsewomanship at it’s Finest.

An interactive weekend of professional development and horsewomanship.

Daily activities include educational lectures and interactive sessions with topics including; Emotional Intelligence and how we can develop our EI, rider fitness related to the abdominals, evaluating the functional conformation of the horse, Osteopathy and what it is, negative reinforcement and positive punishment, basic hoof conformation, and how to set you and your horse up for the ‘perfect’ photo!

Both Friday and Saturday include evening events (onsite) to celebrate, collaborate and have FUN!

You can count on great food, a taste of whiskey and the good company of other horsewomen.

Investment: $485 per person

Includes: Registration for knowledge lectures and interactive sessions with horses, Friday & Saturday evening supper’s, Saturday and Sunday lunches, a special gift, AND a photo in our custom Horsewoman’s Club Frame.


What next? Click on Register Now!

We’ll send you an email that includes more specific event details including accommodation for you, what to bring, daily agendas and speaker topics.

Contact us by sending an email to : horsewomansclub@gmail.com with any questions or comments - we'd love to hear from you!

  • “Let’s Get EMOTIONAL” with Becky Taylor

    Have you ever been told that ‘you’re too emotional’ or ‘ don’t bring your emotions to work’ or my personal fave, ‘just calm down’?
    The reality is, we are all emotional beings and we can learn to develop our emotional intelligence. Emotional Intelligence (EI) is different from Intelligence Quotient (IQ). Both can be measured, but EI can be learned & developed.

    We will:

    • Complete a quick self test

    • Discuss components of EI

    • Build a plan to build EQ


    ”To The CORE” with Trish Tweddell

    Abdominal Muscles and the Psoas Major.

    This interactive exercise session will look at some basic anatomy of the ribs, spine, pelvis and mechanism of breathing followed by a discussion as to what makes up “the Core”. Proprioception and embodied movement of the abdominals and how to strength train the psoas and the abdominals dynamically for riding.

    “Conformation: Structural vs Functional” and how an owner can tell the difference with Tina Watkins

    As horse people we’ve been taught to an evaluate a horses standing structure for both soundness and conformation since we started learning about horses. Looking at a horse for appropriate balance in the sport that we want to do is key and a lot of us favor a certain type of horse. If a horse is standing in a resting posture that is asymmetrical, it might trick us into thinking that’s a true conformational defect. In this talk, we are going to evaluate what is a true conformational problem, and what is a functional asymmetry that the horse has developed. During the hands on portion, we’ll work through how one can both evaluate the severity of this asymmetry and how to use stimulation exercises to start to target the soft tissue that’s allowing the horse to stand with this asymmetry.


    “What is Osteopathy?” The whole horse approach with Katey Campbell

    We will explore the foundational principles of equine osteopathy and its holistic, "whole horse" approach to wellness. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how osteopathy goes beyond symptom-focused treatments to address the root causes of imbalances in the equine body.

    Discover the power of observation and assessment- two essential tools in the equine osteopath's practice. Discover how these techniques help identify subtle patterns of tension, restriction, and dysfunction in the horse.

    We will discuss:

    • What osteopathy is.

    • The interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit in equine health.

    • Some tips on how to use observation and assessment to build a clearer picture of your horse’s physical and emotional well-being.

    Whether you’re an equine professional, caregiver, or steward, this presentation will empower you with insights to better understand your horse

    “Negative Reinforcement and Positive Punishment: When does Aversive Become Abusive” with Jody Busch

    Jody will lead the group through a thought provoking discussion about learning theory and welfare. Participants can expect to gain a basic understanding of operant conditioning and how we apply it in horse training followed by a discussion about the welfare implications of the application of learning theory in training.

    “It’s all in the Hooves!”

    "A hands-on session covering how to find and retain a farrier, and what to look for when choosing one. We will review basic hoof anatomy, essential first aid kit items, and proper application when dealing with abscesses and puncture wounds. The session will finish with a demonstration of pulling shoes and what to expect during the process."

    “DIY Equine Portraits - How to take better photos of your horse, with your CELL PHONE!” with Krystina Kowalik

    Let's face it, we don't ALL have the time, the money, in some cases just the planning skills, to hire a professional photographer.  Sometimes we just want to take some cute pictures of our horses when we're out riding with friends or just hanging out at the barn! We'll go over the do's and don'ts of capturing your own beautiful images with your Cell Phone, as well as touch on things to consider when hiring a pro!

  • Microtel Inn & Suites Blackfalds

    • 10 minute drive from HIHR. Next to Tim Hortons and many other services

    Reserve Here

    OR

    Hotels in North Red Deer close to Hwy 2 Access. 15 min ~ Drive to HIHR

    Radisson Hotel Red Deer

    Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Speakers

Elan Hansen

Elan has made her career for the last 15 years as an Environmental Health & Safety Specialist for a global manufacturing company. A large part of her role is to facilitate learning in specialized courses and coach others on the application of company standards. Elan is a natural influential leader. One of her strengths is the ability to connect with others on a personal level and cultivate meaningful relationships. A testament to her ability to listen to others. She creates a positive atmosphere and brings a high level of energy to any situation.

Elan has successfully been able to navigate between the responsibilities of a demanding professional career all the while pursuing her passions outside of work. A balance that is hard to find. She has been able to nurture both area’s in her life to find growth and success in both.


Becky Taylor

Becky began her career as a Registered Veterinary Technologist and has been active in the veterinary profession for over 25 years. She has participated in hundreds of CE opportunities over that time, sat on many national and provincial boards and is a dedicated, lifelong learner. The pinnacle of this learning was in 2016, when Becky completed a Master of Arts in Professional Communication through Royal Roads University. Her special interest is combining the science and feel of dialogue in a skillful way, such that it contributes to highly engaged, rewarding conversations.

Becky is the Co-Founder of BS Communication Strategies, a new and progressive company providing customized communication coaching to individuals, companies and teams in a practical, skills- based way. She is well known for her expertise and wit in teaching and coaching skills used in generating connected, skilled dialogue. She is a self proclaimed, Communication Nerd!


Trish Tweddell

Trish is a Rider Biomechanics Coach, she is an expert at helping riders feel and correct imbalances in equitation. It takes a team to get our horses in top form.

Trish is an Equine Canada Certified Competition Coach & Equestrian Canada Licensed Coach. She completed a 2 year apprenticeship with a Canadian Olympic Equestrian Gina Smith and is a Canadian Pony Club Alumna. Being a Level 2 TAGteach educator; Trish offers student centred learning that uses effective communication, skill breakdown and motivated practice. This gives riders the tools to sustainably correct their equitation allowing for consistency with cues in the saddle.

Trish earned a BSc from the University of Saskatchewan, has travelled the world, lived in exotic places and experienced many cultures.

As the only Licensed Franklin Method Equestrian 3* Trainer in Western Canada she can walk riders through embodiments, imagery, simple anatomy and exercises that increase awareness and develop feel. All of these fall under the umbrella of DNITM , which is an evidence based, systematic method for movement and postural control re-training.

Check out https://eckwoodequine.ca/ for more info!


Katey Campbell

Katey is an Equine Functional Osteopath, advocate, and educator committed to enhancing the overall well-being of horses. With a passion for helping equines thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually, she holds a postgraduate diploma in Equine Osteopathy from Animal Osteopathy International in England and a degree in Marketing. She has also studied the Masterson Method, is certified in equine Farriery and hoof care, and worked as a Veterinary Assistant in both a small animal emergency hospital and an equine sports medicine practice, bringing a wealth of knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics to her work.

For over 15 years, Katey has dedicated herself to building compassionate, holistic relationships with horses, continually exploring new, more empathetic approaches to equine care. She believes in creating symbiotic partnerships where horses are seen, heard, and understood, and is committed to advancing the equine world through education, community-building, and the sharing of knowledge. Through her osteopathic approach, Katey provides valuable insights into the holistic health and wellness of horses.

Now based in Sundre, Alberta, Katey enjoys life on her 5-acre farm with her partner, two horses, and chiweenies.


Tina Watkins

Tina Watkins is a certified EST (Equine Sports Therapist), and EEBW3 (Level 3 Equinology Equine Body worker). She founded Inhand Equine Therapy in 1996 and in the early years developing her business, Tina was fortunate to have opportunities to work with equine dentists, veterinarians, farriers and other equine practitioners gaining valuable experience and providing team-based solutions to health issues in elite animal athletes.

Teaching is a passion of Tina’s, and she shares her knowledge in a variety of courses every year. Her own desire to always continue learning keeps her fresh and excited about every aspect of her career.

As an active FEI dressage competitor herself, Tina truly understands the unique demands and issues equine-rider partnerships must address.


Jody Busch

Jody Busch trains horses and teaches lessons and clinics based in Saskatoon, SK. Jody believes that you should be able to ride your horse regardless of what you hang on their head and aspires to have all of her horses trained to the degree that they would be equally comfortable in a neck rope, bitless bridle, double bridle or a spade bit. Although she firmly believes it is about the training and not the tools, Jody is fascinated by the variety of headgear that we might choose to use, the rich history surrounding it and the reasons we might choose one piece of equipment over another. 


Kim Lacey AWCF

Kim is an Olds College graduate from Alberta, who apprenticed for four years under Dan Sullivan DWCF. With extensive international experience, I am an AFA Exchange and WCFA International representative, shoeing in over six countries. A proud member of the Canadian Farrier team in 2022, and recently achieving the Associate with the Worshipful Company of Farriers.  With a strong commitment to fostering international and local relationships, I actively participate in clinics and competitions, sharing expertise and continuing to advance the craft of farriery.


Krystina Kowalik

Hi! I'm Krystina! A small town girl from Central Alberta with a passion for living life, riding horses, and making some of your most precious moments last for generations to come. I also LOVE sharing my knowledge and doing everything I can to support other photographers and small business owners.

Photography has taken me to some pretty incredible places over the years and presented me with some amazing opportunities. Clients tend to turn into friends pretty quickly around here and I'm absolutely here for it! My mission is to capture images that tell your story. Images that you will be proud to display on your walls, and moments that you will cherish forever.

Check out https://www.klphoto.ca/ to see her stunning work!


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